and K-9s conduct Search and Rescue
courtesy of the Georgia Department of
ces.
o hike with at least one other person. Photo
Georgia Department of Natural Resrouces.
and year of the car used to get there.
Strength adds that even downloading an application
that can display precise latitude and longitude
coordinates could be helpful in communicating exactly
where you are to searchers if you’re able to get a signal.
Relying solely on your cell phone’s GPS often fails since
that requires cell phone towers to triangulate a signal
around the phone. That can be a challenge when hiking
in mountainous or hilly regions.
What seems to put hikers in danger the most is
hikers themselves. While natural occurrences do pose
a threat, it’s often the lack of preparation and practical
consideration that causes a problem. One of the biggest
operations Strength worked was searching for a long
time hunter who experienced an unexpected medical
issue while alone on the trail.
“It happens more frequently than I think most
people realize,” said Strength, a Northeast Georgia
local and avid hiker himself, who encourages anyone
planning to head outdoors to take time to make a plan
and prepare appropriately. ■
For more tips on outdoor safety, visit
the U.S. Forestry Service’s website at
https://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/safety/
safety.shtml
Keep your gear in working order and pack
emergency signaling equipment.
Watch Where You Are Going
Avoid slippery surfaces and areas where
you may lose your footing.
Be Weather Wise
Keep an eye on current and upcoming
weather conditions.
Dress Appropriately
Wear appropriate clothing for the season
and trail conditions.
Learn Basic First Aid
Be able to identify and treat injuries and
illnesses, and always carry a first aid kit.
Make Camp Before Dark
Travel during the daylight so you can
always see where you are going.
Think Before You Drink
Pack water or purify through chemical
treatment, and remember that agility,
balance and judgement are all affected
by alcohol.
Source: USDA Forest Service
www.fs.fed.us/recreation/safety/safety.shtml
Photo courtesy of Georgia Deptartment of Natural Resources
DISPATCH
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